Edith Maryon: Rudolf Steiner and the Sculpture of Christ in Dornach

Edith Maryon (1872-1924) was a trained sculptor who worked alongside Rudolf Steiner to create the unique sculpture of Christ at the Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland. They had a close relationship, with Maryon keeping a detailed correspondence with Steiner that revealed his personal struggles and longing for the Dornach studio. Her spiritual signature and their mutual work in anthroposophy and on the sculpture of Christ are explored in this book.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2022
Publisher: Temple Lodge Publishing

Edith Maryon, a skilled sculptor, collaborated with Rudolf Steiner to craft the remarkable sculpture of Christ known as the 'Representative of Humanity' at the Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland. She held a prominent position among Steiner's closest associates, serving as a cherished colleague and esoteric student. In their extensive correspondence, Maryon maintained a busy and detailed exchange with Steiner, openly sharing his personal struggles, the lack of genuine colleagues, challenges associated with lecture tours, and the contentious public perception of anthroposophy. These letters consistently highlighted Steiner's deep longing for the Dornach studio and their joint efforts on the Christ statue. Tragically, Maryon's untimely passing at the age of 52, after a fifteen-month illness, left Rudolf Steiner profoundly shaken. Less than a year later, Steiner himself passed away.

The primary objective of this book is to shed light on the spiritual essence of Edith Maryon's relationship with Rudolf Steiner and their joint endeavors in anthroposophy and the creation of the Christ sculpture. Drawing upon Rex Raab's biography (1993), Peter Selg's captivating study incorporates a multitude of photographs and facsimiles of letters, utilizing previously unpublished sources from Edith Maryon and Ita Wegman's literary estates, as well as the Rudolf Steiner Archive in Dornach.

In the words of Rudolf Steiner, Edith Maryon possessed a remarkable quality that transcended specific human endeavors, including art. The most prominent aspect of her soul was her unwavering pursuit of spirituality. This spiritual inclination permeated all aspects of her being, shaping her intentions and aspirations. Maryon's dedication to spirituality was a driving force behind her artistic endeavors, as she sought to capture the essence of the divine in her sculptures. Through her work, she aimed to inspire and awaken a sense of spirituality within those who encountered her creations.

Edith Maryon's collaboration with Rudolf Steiner was a profound and transformative partnership. Their shared vision and dedication to anthroposophy and the Christ sculpture left an indelible mark on the world. Maryon's contributions as a sculptor and her deep understanding of Steiner's ideas enriched the collective work of the anthroposophical movement. Her unwavering commitment to spirituality and her artistic prowess made her a cherished member of the community.

The authors of this book have meticulously researched and compiled a wealth of information, providing a comprehensive account of Edith Maryon's life and work. Through their meticulous attention to detail and the inclusion of previously unpublished sources, they have created a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the spiritual dimensions of art and the profound influence of Rudolf Steiner.

In conclusion, Edith Maryon's life and work serve as a testament to the power of spirituality and artistic expression. Her collaboration with Rudolf Steiner on the Christ sculpture was a remarkable testament to their shared vision and dedication to anthroposophy. This book offers a profound exploration of their spiritual relationship and their collective contributions to the world. By shedding light on the spiritual signature of Edith Maryon's relationship with Rudolf Steiner, it provides a valuable insight into the deeper dimensions of art and the enduring legacy of anthroposophy.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912230952